Kyle Larson doubles down on “better all-around driver than Max Verstappen” ahead of 2025 Indy 500

Kyle Larson doubles down on “better all-around driver than Max Verstappen” ahead of 2025 Indy 500

Kyle Larson and Max Verstappen (Via IMAGO)

2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson found himself in a big mess following comments he made, comparing him and reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen. The Hendrick Motorsports driver claimed that he is a better all-round driver than the Red Bull driver, owing to his experience with different racing series.

Ahead of his second Indy 500 attempt Kyle Larson decided to yet again address the situation and double down on his claim. Speaking to The Athletics’ Jeff Gluck, the veteran declared that he has never claimed he is the greatest driver in the world nor-he claimed to be a better driver than the four-time F1 champion.

People act like I’m the one who said I am the greatest race car driver in the world. I never said that. I just said I’m a better all-around driver than Max Verstappen.

Kyle Larson told Jeff Gluck.

So, what exactly Larson meant with the Max Verstappen comment. Well, he didn’t say he was the best racer, as some think the latter is the best at the moment. Instead, he was only discussing the versatility and experience in a wider aery of racing. At the end of the day, fans should enjoy what left of the two champion drivers on the track.

And they took that as I said, ‘I’m the greatest in the world.’ Because, for some reason, Max is considered the greatest in the world. So, it’s funny. I mean, I expect it when I have a crash or something. But it’s fine.

Kyle Larson added.

Kyle Larson branded as the greatest in adjusting to new series

Though the motorsports world hasn’t witnessed how versatile Verstappen is as a driver, they have seen what Kyle Larson is capable of, inspiring many to give him the appreciation he deserves. The most recent one to comment on Kyle Larson’s capability is ex-Indy 500 champion Tony Kanaan of McLaren.

Kyle Larson (via McLaren)
Kyle Larson (via McLaren)

He is more than just a star driver for Larson though, as the veteran is the NASCAR champions mentor for the Indy 500. Kanaan also will replace Larson in the car, if the later is forced to get back to the Cup Series race before the Indy event is over for one reason or another. He believes the No:5 Chevy NASCAR driver is the best talent in terms of adapting to challenges of other racing series.  

But to the point that we’re talking now, that Jimmie made the transition, I tried to make the like… Let’s face it, we had it, but not enough, otherwise, we would have picked up quicker, right? He (Kyle Larson) doesn’t have that, he just picks up the first time, I would say at talent to adapt, he’s the best I’ve ever seen.

Tony Kanaan said.

The HMS driver has delivered what was expected of him so far over the years and he expected to do the same in the upcoming Indy 500 weekend. If he can secure a strong enough finish in the Motor Sports Crown Jewel race, he can put more pressure on Max Verstappen regarding the most versatile racer of the generation claim.

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